England boss Hodgson embroiled over alleged racist comment

England winger Andros Townsend has dismissed claims a half-time team talk by manager Roy Hodgson caused offence.
Hodgson told an old joke about a monkey and an astronaut to illustrate the importance of right-back Chris Smalling getting the ball to Townsend during Tuesday's 2-0 win over Poland.

Hodgson later apologised after it was reported the comment caused offence.

But Townsend tweeted: "I don't know what all this fuss is about. No offence was meant and none was taken!"

Wayne Rooney also Tweeted his support, writing: "Seen the story on Roy this morning. He [has] done nothing wrong. This is ridiculous."

However, Anti-racism group Kick it Out has called for an investigation into the matter.